July 2008
July was a much better month than the last two, with some movement of different species on the pools. The main point of interest on the 20th, at the old workings and the new diggings, and staying 2 days, was a Little Stint. This rare, dainty bird is one of the smallest waders to be seen on our shores and inland pools. Also on the 20th, on the new workings, a Greenshank stayed for only a day.
Most encouraging were regular sightings in two locations of Turtle Dove. 1-3 Little Egrets were present on the pools throughout the month. Good news about the pair of Spotted Flycatchers at the old workings, whose brood successfully fledged. Redstart were reported in a few locations in the vicinity of the New Workings. The numbers of Green and Common Sandpiper remained constant through the month, but by its end we had lost the Redshank and the numbers of Swift, Swallow, House Martin and Sand Martin had greatly decreased.
The nesting period was almost complete, all but for the late-nesting Tufted Duck, producing 6 broods. Another species that showed well was Little Owl, but sadly no nest sites were reported, likewise for Barn Owl.
Other reported sightings of interest included Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Hobby, Kingfisher, Little Ringed Plover, Sparrowhawk, Raven and Oystercatcher.
